SKIN cancer is now the most common form of cancer among residents of Warrington – and health chiefs are urging residents to be safe in the sun.
The borough council is backing Cancer Research UK’s skin cancer campaign and is running a series of free summer skin check-ups on board a state-of-the-art mobile skin clinic, the iVan.
On board, nurses will be providing free skin check-ups as well as more information about skin cancer and how to protect skin in the sun.
The two main causes of skin cancer are over-exposure to the sun and harmful UV rays from sunbed use.
Cancer Research UK has found that getting just one painful sunburn every two years can triple the risk of developing the most serious form of skin cancer.
Dr John Ashworth, consultant dermatologist at Bridgewater Community Healthcare NHS Trust, said: “Never burn red in the sun. Be very aware of yours and your children’s moles, especially on the back of the shoulders and back of the legs, by taking a reasonable photo perhaps using a smart phone to act as a record for comparison and so you notice any changes.
“Always make sure you use sunscreen – apply a minimum of factor 15 generously and regularly. Keep out of the sun as much as possible and avoid using sun beds. Kids burn more easily than adults, so make sure your children are protected by high factor sunscreen, covered up and wearing a sun cap.”
Signs and symptoms of skin cancer include a mole or freckle that has changed in size or shape or begins to bleed, a sore or spot on the skin that won’t heal and any raised, red patches that develop on the skin. Anyone who notices any unusual changes to the skin should visit their GP.
Cllr Pat Wright, the council’s executive member for health and wellbeing said: “Residents need to take this advice seriously and make sure they take the right precautions when they go out in the sun and always use sun cream.”
The iVan will be at the following locations on the following dates:
Peel Hall Park, Blackbrook Avenue, June 15; Orford Park Festival, Orford Park, June 16; Stockton Heath Festival, Forge Car Park June 23; Warrington Mela, Queens Gardens, June 30.
Westbrook Asda Car Park, Westbrook, July 20; Culcheth Green, Culcheth, July 21; Walton Hall Gardens, July 28.
Further information about skin cancer and advice about being sun safe, is available at www.sunsmart.org.uk or www.warringtonpublichealth.org.
SKIN cancer is now the most common form of cancer among residents of
Warrington - and health chiefs are urging residents to be safe in the
sun.
Skin cancer warning as sun shines
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About Author
Gary Skentelbery
Experienced journalist for more than 40 years. Managing Director of magazine publishing group with three in-house titles and on-line daily newspaper for Warrington. Experienced writer, photographer, PR consultant and media expert having written for local, regional and national newspapers. Specialties: PR, media, social networking, photographer, networking, advertising, sales, media crisis management. Chair of Warrington Healthwatch Director Warrington Chamber of Commerce Patron Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Trustee Warrington Disability Partnership. Former Chairman of Warrington Town FC.
